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Introduction

Having modelled in "00" for many years and dabbled in "N" and "009" I needed to have a change. The garden at my present address beckoned to have a garden railway built in it, and the decision to experiment in "0" gauge for the first time was made, as there was plenty of available space.

The full layout, erected in the garden

The purchase of a 5-plank open wagon kit and some wheels, and a start down the slippery slope was made. Being rather pleased with the resultant wagon I then took the plunge and bought a kit of a GWR 57XX Pannier Tank - thus sealing my association with the GWR, having previously been a Midland Region overhead electric enthusiast during its early days in the 60's. Some 9 months later the finished engine was tested on the track (laid in the garden during the summer) hauling the solitary wagon.

Loco shed and goods shed

After the next few months of cleaning track and wheels every few minutes, the conclusion was arrived at that the salt air in Felixstowe was not conducive to electric garden railway working. Having spent a large sum of money on the engine, coupled with a long standing desire to build an exhibition standard layout, and you have the beginning of Holmehurst as a layout, way back in December 1989.